When Elisabeth Hasselbeck Attacks: A Conservative Condemnation of Michael Phelps

Still, we can't help but comment on the condemnation this talk show host laid at the feet of Olympic champion Michael Phelps this morning on The View.

In response to the shocking news that a 23-year old smokes pot, Hasselbeck said Phelps is "being paid millions to be an example [to youth]," actually adding that if he's willing to "take a drug that could impede his performance, would he be open to taking a drug that would enhance his performance?"

It's challenging to keep track of all that's misguided about that question, but we'll try:

Phelps is not being paid millions of dollars to be an example to anyone; he's being paid millions of dollars to sell products. Is Hasselbeck implying that Phelps' status as a role model would be different if he weren't a Nike pitchman?

Marijuana has never been proven to be any more dangerous than alcohol. Would Hasselbeck have had anything to say if Phelps were doing a keg stand? Or smoking a cigarette? If the issue is legality, what if he had received a speeding ticket? (Racecar driver Danica Patrick has received multiple citations for speeding; where is Hasselbeck's outrage over that?)

The actions of Phelps are not impeding any performance; he's gone on record, numerous times, as saying he's taking months off from training. The 2012 Olympics? They're in 2012!

Equating marijuana to steroids is like equating beer to Viagra. One impedes a performance, the other enhances it. They also have nothing to do with one another.

Phelps has apologized for his behavior, which was the first blip on what's been a stellar, patriotic career in the spotlight.

Do you think he deserves to have his integrity questioned by Hasselbeck? Let us know if you think her comments were...

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